The right flooring can have a direct impact on a room. Below, you will find a list of different flooring options including their benefits and maintenance requirements in order to help make your choice
1. Glass tiles –
This renewable source is quickly becoming a wonderful option for floors as well as bathroom and kitchen walls. Glass has similar benefits of other eco-friendly materials. It is non-absorptive and won’t allow mildew or mold to grow in damp environments. Glass is easy to maintain and won’t stain. It comes in a limitless array of colors, patterns and finishes suitable for most design schemes. Unlike ceramic tiles, glass will reflect light rather than absorb it, adding that additional layer of light some rooms need.
2. Linoleum –
In the past, vinyl was the top choice for flooring in many homes. It is cheap and long lasting. The next trend was ceramic tile because of its ability to deal with wear and tear at a relatively cheap cost. However, the choices available in the market today are varied and can suit families with different budgets. Linoleum is a great eco-friendly, long lasting choice that is easy to maintain and holds color very well
3. Hardwood –
Hardwood floors combine beauty and durability. Hardwood flooring might be on the expensive side but is very long lasting and appealing. Many types of hardwoods are available and come at different price tags. If properly cared for, a hardwood floor could last up to 50 years or more.
4. Carpet –
This has long been a favorite go-to material for most homes. It is soft to walk on, comfortable to sit on and comes in a range of colors and patterns. Unfortunately, carpet has typically been made using volatile organic compounds or toxins that are harmful to the environment and to our health. However, there are eco-friendly options. Consider carpets made of wool. Wool is a natural resource spun into a thread that can be dyed any color imaginable, and then be woven to create a carpet. It is one of the first materials to be used as a floor covering, is very durable and can last centuries. In some families, wool rugs have been passed down from generation to generation, making them family heirlooms. Other natural materials used to make carpets or rugs are sisal, jute and cotton.
5. Cork –
is relatively new to the flooring world. It is usually seen on walls or in your favorite bottle of wine, but it is a great material for floors. Cork is harvested from the bark of the cork oak tree commonly found in the forests of the Mediterranean. The trees are not cut down to harvest the bark, which will grow back every three years, making it an ideal renewable source. It has anti-microbial properties that reduce allergens in the home, is fire retardant, easy to maintain and acts as a natural insect repellent as well. Cork, like wood can be finished in a variety of paints and stains to suit any color scheme or design style. Its durability allows for use in any part of the house. Cork floors, depending on the quality, can last between 10-30 years.
